If you suspect that your hormones are unbalanced, this article will show you foods that balance hormones and promote weight loss.
Studies show that hormones have a bigger impact on weight loss than previously thought. For instance, high cortisol levels cause belly fat accumulation, according to research.
Low thyroid function can also hinder weight loss or cause weight gain in some cases.
Clearly, you have to keep your hormones balanced if you want to lose weight. Eating a healthy diet is the easiest way to balance your hormones. Exercising regularly, getting adequate sleep, and managing stress will also help.
The foods below will keep your hormones balanced and help you lose weight faster.
Foods that balance hormones
1. Apples
Apples are one of the healthiest foods you will ever eat. They are an excellent source of fiber and they are loaded with antioxidants.
Studies show that regular consumption of apples lowers the risk of diseases like Alzheimer’s, stroke and even cancer.
It’s worth mentioning that most apples have pesticide residue which isn’t good for your hormones, so buy certified organic.
2. Spinach
Spinach is a very nutrient dense food and an excellent source of phytoecdysteroids.
Phytoecdysteroids are plant-based steroids, which have been clinically proven to boost resting metabolic rate and lower insulin levels.
Fresh spinach is more nutrient dense and contains fewer toxins than the canned spinach.
3. Wild Caught Salmon
Salmon is an excellent source of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids.
Several recent studies show that salmon helps control insulin levels and reduce inflammation. It is also a good source of vitamin D, which is critical for the production of testosterone and reducing estrogen.
4. Olive Oil
Other than balancing your hormones, olive oil will improve your heart health. It has potent antioxidant properties which fight inflammation.
I can’t forget to mention that olive oil contains plant sterols which aid hormonal balance and control cholesterol. If you want to maintain optimal health, cook with olive oil instead of vegetable oil.
5. Almonds
Almonds have been shown to regulate blood sugar levels, consequently, lowering risk of type 2 diabetes.
Research also shows that almonds reduce bad cholesterol in adults.
6. Flaxseed
Flaxseed is an excellent source of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. Studies show that flaxseed helps lower the risk of diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
Flaxseeds can keep you full without excess calories since whole flax seeds pass through your body without being digested.
7. Avocado
Avocado is one of the healthiest fruits in the world. It is rich in healthy fats and has numerous health benefits.
Avocados contain plant sterols with anti-estrogenic properties. That means they can block estrogen receptors in the cells and reduce estrogen absorption rate. Avocados have actually boost progesterone levels in women and testosterone levels in men.
Eat avocados in moderation since they are high in calories.
8. Green tea
Many studies show that green tea extract boosts metabolism and enhances fat burning. One of the contents of green tea is Theanine, a natural compound that prevents the release of cortisol.
Green tea also contains antioxidants that are useful in reducing inflammation and the risk of diseases like cancer. Avoid adding sugar to green sugar since it can undo some of these benefits.
9. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil will balance your hormones fast since it reduces inflammation and enhances weight loss. In addition, it has antibacterial properties.
¼ a cup a day of coconut oil is enough to balance hormones. You can either cook with it or add it to breakfast smoothies or coffee.
10. Broccoli
Chances are your estrogen levels are high if you’re overweight. Broccoli contains phytochemicals called indoles, which play a role in estrogen metabolism.
They convert excess estrogen into a safer form, which significantly reduces the risk of estrogen-linked cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer.
11. Fresh/Powdered Ginger
Inflammation has been linked to almost every chronic disease. Well, ginger can help fight inflammation. It contains antioxidants, which balance blood circulation, boost immune function and reduce inflammation in the body.
12. Maca Root
This is one of the best hormone balancing foods for men and women. Maca is a food high in minerals and fatty acids. It also boosts hormone production and libido.
You can add maca powder to beverages or take it in capsule form.
13. Wild Yams
A study conducted back in 2005 showed that consumption of yams improves the status of sex hormones, lipids, and antioxidants.
14. Citrus Fruits
Fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits will balance your hormones. They help control estrogen levels and are a source of vitamin C, which will help cleanse the liver and get rid of toxins.
Remember citrus fruits contain sugar, so eat them in moderation.
15. Berries
I would imagine you’ve heard that berries are good for weight loss and your health. Blueberries, in particular, have potent anti-inflammatory properties. They also lower insulin and blood sugar levels.
16. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are called a superfood for a good reason. They contain Omega 3 fatty acids, fiber, amino acids, and minerals.
Chia seeds balance hormones by reducing bad cholesterol, improving insulin sensitivity and controlling blood sugar levels.
17. Cinnamon
Adding cinnamon to food or beverages has many weight loss benefits. For one, research shows that cinnamon helps control insulin levels.
Cinnamon also reduces bad cholesterol. Take half a teaspoon per day, for 3-4 weeks if you want to improve insulin sensitivity.
18. Plain Organic Yoghurt
Plain yogurt is loaded with nutrients. It contains protein, probiotics, calcium, magnesium, potassium, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, and very few calories.
Yogurt is a great food for relieving stress and suppressing appetite. It also reduces the craving for the sugary stuff.
19. Dark chocolate
Eating dark chocolate in moderation (one square a day) will help balance your hormones.
When buying dark chocolate, choose darker ones since they contain more antioxidants and less sugar. It’s worth noting that dark chocolate helps curb cravings.
20. Grass-fed Beef
Grass-fed beef contains bioactive amino acids. Research shows that these amino acids (L-Leucine, L-Ornithine, L-Valine, and L-Glutamine) increase the production of growth hormones.
Bonus: More foods to balance your hormones
Fava Beans
Watermelon
Eggs
Beets
Nuts
Garlic
Most people tend to forget that food isn’t just a source of calories. Eating the right foods can balance your hormones and keep you energetic.
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